Flemish Giant Rabbit

History of the Flemish Giant Rabbit

The Flemish Giant Rabbit is an old breed of rabbit thought to have originated from the Flemish region as early as the 16th or 17th century, around the city of Ghent, Belgium. The Flemish Giant started to appear at rabbit shows with the original Flemish Giant weighing about 14 pounds (6.3kg) and the first breeding standards being written in 1893. At this time, the coloring for a Flemish Giant was an iron gray color with sandy or white bar markings on the legs and long, bent tipped, ears.

Health

For the most part, the Flemish Giant is a healthy breed that lives around five years but can live up into the teens. Flemish Giants can be fed like other rabbits, with the amount of food increased to match their larger size. ARBA recommendations include hay and occasional treats. Hay is the most important part of your rabbit’s diet. Pellets should only make up a small amount of your rabbit’s diet. They are high calorie and low fiber which leads to obesity and overgrown teeth.

Fresh vegetables keep your rabbit’s intestines well hydrated, which helps with overall digestion. Rabbits have a sweet tooth and would probably love to eat a lot of fruit. However, because of the high sugar content, fruits should be fed only as treats. There are several foods that you should never feed your rabbit, including chocolate, pasta, and yogurt.

Size, Weight, Shape & Ears

Fur / Coat

They have smooth medium length hair with a glossy sheen and a dense undercoat. Brush once a week with a slicker brush. If the rabbit is molting, brush twice a week.

Personality

Flemish Giants are calm and docile rabbits and not as active as many smaller breeds, preferring to laze around rather then run and jump much of the time. They are friendly and good natured and can make very good childrens pets.